Pakistan Introduces New Umrah Rules

Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has issued a new notification setting fresh rules for Umrah services, aiming to improve oversight, transparency, and protection for pilgrims.

Under the new framework, only companies approved by the ministry will be allowed to provide Umrah services. The move falls under the Hajj and Umrah Act 2024, which brings Umrah arrangements under the ministry’s regulatory authority.

The ministry has also formed an Umrah Policy Committee to develop and monitor the new policy. The committee will be chaired by the Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and will include representatives from the Ministries of Interior, Foreign Affairs, and Law, along with the Cabinet Division.

Authorities said a list of approved Umrah operators will be published on the ministry’s official website. Pilgrims have been urged to book only through authorized companies and avoid unregistered operators, as complaints will only be accepted against officially approved firms.

The notification also advises pilgrims to make payments through formal banking channels and keep receipts, contracts, and related documents. The ministry said the rules are designed to curb illegal operators, improve accountability, and safeguard the rights of pilgrims.